Co-founder

Lee is the co-founder of River Access Paddle Programs (2022) which developed out of realizing the need to create opportunities for inclusion, diversity and access to paddle sports through environmental education. Lee is an American Canoe Association Certified Instructor for sea kayak, canoe and stand up paddle board. They grew up on the Pacific Ocean beginning their connection to water at a young age in Hawaii.

They have been working on the Duwamish River and Salish Sea for over 12 years. Living in the Duwamish River Valley they continue working towards land and water protection, education and restoration efforts. They are a board member of Shared Spaces Foundation and the Field Director of The Heron’s Nest land back education project also located in Seattle, WA. They are a climate activist that believes in the power of change through environmental education and sharing passion for generational health and preservation of forests and waterways.

She/Her

Co-founder

Cari Simson is an environmental consultant and mixed media artist who focuses on connecting people with their local environments. She loves being on the water and has been paddling on the Duwamish River since 2003, and more recently became an avid paddleboarder.

She also produces events with the Friends of Georgetown History's annual Georgetown Haunted History Tour, which has entertained sold out crowds for the past 20 years. Cari has a space at Equinox Studios in Georgetown, and is a catalyst and community connector bringing big ideas to fruition by assembling diverse teams and partnerships.

She/Her

Outreach Coordinator

Gabriela is someone who cares about the environment. She is inspired to introduce others to kayaking, the Duwamish River, and the great outdoors. They fight climate change paralysis by investing their time in community clean ups. They want to do what’s right and get things done now, without waiting for politicians or corporation to do what is right.